EIT Digital partners with Intesa Sanpaolo to support student education through "Per Merito" program

Through this partnership, Intesa Sanpaolo has allocated a number of scholarships specifically available to EIT Digital Master School students who are studying at universities based in Italy and who are Italian residents. This opportunity comes as part of the bank's broader Fund for Impact initiative, which was created to promote credit inclusion with significant social impact.

The program's design reflects its commitment to supporting students throughout their educational journey. Rather than requiring immediate repayment, "Per Merito" allows students to begin repaying the loan two years after completing their studies. Furthermore, repayment can be spread over a period of up to 30 years, making monthly payments more manageable for graduates entering the workforce.

The "Per Merito" initiative directly addresses several challenges facing students in Italy's higher education system. With tertiary education rates in Italy significantly below the European average (17.8% compared to 29.5%), programs that support student persistence and completion are crucial.

Research conducted by Intesa Sanpaolo indicates that the program has already had considerable impact. Among the beneficiaries, approximately 22.8% reported they would have abandoned their studies without access to the loan.

Another 6.5% stated they would have been forced to modify their academic path, often choosing less preferred options due to financial constraints.

Even for students who would have pursued their studies regardless of the loan, "Per Merito" provides greater financial independence and improved quality of life during their academic careers. The program's impact assessment suggests it contributes to reduced dropout rates, timely completion of degrees, and increased employability upon graduation.

Since its launch in 2019, "Per Merito" has approved over €285 million in financing for approximately 17,000 students across Italy. The program's impact assessment estimates that the monetizable value of positive outcomes generated will reach about €170.7 million over a 20-year period, with 86% of this value directly benefiting the students themselves.

Beyond individual benefits, the program contributes to broader social and economic goals. By increasing the number of citizens with tertiary education degrees, reducing delays in degree completion, and enhancing graduates' employment prospects, "Per Merito" addresses structural challenges in Italy's education system and labor market.

For EIT Digital Master School students specifically, the partnership opens doors to world-class education in digital innovation and entrepreneurship that might otherwise remain closed due to financial constraints. This aligns with EIT Digital's mission to build a strong digital Europe through education, innovation, and scaling of digital ventures.

EIT Digital Master School students interested in the "Per Merito" program can apply directly through Intesa Sanpaolo. To be eligible, students must be studying at a university based in Italy and be Italian residents. The application process is straightforward, with no need for collateral or personal guarantees that traditionally create barriers for student loans.

Information about the application process is available through the Intesa Sanpaolo website. Students can also reach out to their EIT Digital Master School coordinators for guidance on accessing this financial support.

This partnership between EIT Digital and Intesa Sanpaolo represents a significant contribution to making quality higher education more accessible, particularly in technological fields crucial for Europe's digital future. As digital skills become increasingly essential in the global economy, initiatives that support education in this sector have far- reaching implications for both individual careers and national economic development.